[He's actually blushing, that kind of passionate!11 speech being a little embarrassing to remember and know Arthur can see.]
[But before he can object, there's another memory being shown, not too long after that encounter with Nimueh, when his temporary servant replacement was taken over by a spirit, and tried to argue with Merlin to get him to join him. This time, Merlin's struggle is far more evident, as his fighting with Arthur had left him frustrated and hurt. And still...]
["He does not deserve your loyalty. He treats you like a slave."
"That's not true."
"He cast you aside without a moment's thought."
"That doesn't matter."
"But it must hurt so much to be so put upon, so overlooked, when all the while you have such power."
"That's the way it has to be."
"Does it? You're young, Merlin. Look inside yourself. You have yet to discover your true power. I can help you. Think, Merlin. To have the world appreciate your greatness. To have Arthur know you for what you are."
"That can never be."
"It can, if you join me. Together we can rule over this land! Arthur will tremble at your voice, he will kneel at your feet!"
"I don't want that!"
"You'd rather be a servant?"
"Better to serve a good man that to rule with an evil one."]